Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, and it is the leading cause of death among skin diseases. It develops in the cells that produce melanin, which is what gives the skin its color. The exact cause of melanoma is unclear, but exposure to UV rays from the sun or a tanning bed can increase the risk of developing it. Optimum nutrition is important for cancer patients because the treatments can deplete the body of nutrients and cause weight loss.
Diet
A cancer patient should eat foods that provide optimal nutritional benefits, such as fish, lean cuts of poultry, low-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. It is important to consult with your doctor or a dietitian to develop a meal plan that is right for you and that you will be able to follow throughout your melanoma treatment.
Food List
Some of the foods that should be consumed on a regular basis for a patient with melanoma include whole grains, such as brown rice, buckwheat, oatmeal, whole wheat or rye; vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, carrots, corn, beets and Brussels sprouts; fruit, such as raspberries, bananas, lemons, peaches and raisins; dairy products, such as skim milk, low-fat cheese or yogurt; and protein, such as chicken, turkey, mackerel, trout, pecans and navy beans. It is recommended that you eat a variety of foods every day to get the vitamins and minerals needed for good health.
Supplements
Vitamin and mineral supplements may be recommended to provide the nutrients that your diet may not. They can offer a boost where illness and cancer treatments may have depleted your body. A doctor may recommend daily dosages of various supplements, such as beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, and selenium. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant and immune system enhancer. It helps to strengthen lung capacity and protects the skin against sun damage. Its benefits are increased when it is combined with vitamins C and E. Selenium promotes healthy immune function and helps to stimulate white blood cells.
Sugars and Fats
To maintain good health during melanoma treatments, it is best to avoid sugar-sweetened drinks and limit eating energy-dense foods, particularly processed foods that are high in sugar and fat and low in fiber. Limit the use of vegetable oils such as corn, safflower and sunflower, and choose monounsaturated fats like olive oil, canola oil, nuts, avocados and omega-3 fatty acids such as flaxseed and fish.
